re: Educate me about standby generators

I have had the 15kw generac gas since Rita. Total cost was about 11K installed (FEMA payed for it) It has the proper automatic isolation disconnects. It is setup to come on every Sunday at 2pm and run for 1hr. In 10 years I have only had to replace the regulator diaphram twice and I now keep 3 on the shelf just in case (dry natural gas will cause them to dry rot and split). I have also replaced the crank battery once, and had it lubed and serviced once both about 3 or 4 years ago. I'm probably about due again.

Unless there is a person in the house will serious medical issues I don't see the point. Get a couple of small portable generators and you'll be fine. Realistically, how often does your power go out for an extended period of time ?

Asking the cost of a stand by generator is like asking the price on a car "It really depends." Houses with the same sq. ft. can have very different power requirements, such as all electric vs. a combination of gas and electric.

Each house has to be sized because of the electrical equipment it contains like AC units, Freezers, refrigerators, ovens/stove, dryer, etc.

Other factors for natural gas generator are how far from the generator is the gas meter, or is a tank required. The brand of generator is also a factor, a Cummings or Kohler will be more expensive than a Generic but for a good reason.

Do you want to run your whole house or just certain items will effect the cost.

Call a professional to come size it and do the install. If there are problems there will be one person to complain to.
Most will have a maintenance plan.

I would find a Generac, Kohler and Cummings Dealer and give each of them a call.

A whole house NG Generator is a convenience. I have a 10kw gas generator that I used for the last 10 years. I am able to run the lights, freezer and refri. and all small appliances. I also run a small 110 v. ac in the bed room to sleep at night.

Gasoline generators have to be refilled every 6-10 hours. You need enough storage containers to last a week. For a major storm any gas stations that are open will be packed with people.

Both of my neighbors have whole house NG and after looking at their system, I decided to pull the trigger on one.

Off of a 5500/6750, I usually run:

Any lights I want
TV and shite connected to it
Computer
2 full sized refrigerators
2 small A/C units (smallest at Home Depot)

The A/C units run basically 24/7, but it does make some noise when one of the fridges kicks on

I might not have much choice

Seriously, I barter with our food all the time. If I added them up as a "benefit" I do really, really well.

Much better price, but are you trying to run the entire house like it's on municipal power?

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usually, i'll stock up a bunch of gas cans just cause during the summer regardless.

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This. I just did my annual fill on my 8 gas cans. 40 gallons + gas in the car tanks should be enough to keep my fridge running and a window unit on a night if another "katrina" type event happens.